4 Ways to Motorize Your Vibe Shearwater 125

The Vibe Shearwater 125 is already a very capable kayak. With its wide, stable hull, built-in pod system, pedal-drive compatibility, and generous rigging options, it’s well suited for adding a motor. Pairing it with a Bixpy K-1 Motor is a simple way to reduce effort, handle current more easily, and cover more water during long days on the water.

Below are four Bixpy adapter options that work well with the Shearwater 125, each offering a different way to mount the motor depending on how you like to paddle or fish.

If you’d like to see how the adapters attach to the K-1 motor, you can watch the full install here.

Pedal Drive Adapter

If your Vibe Shearwater 125 is equipped with a pedal drive, Bixpy offers adapter options that work with both configurations.

If your Shearwater uses the Impulse Drive, you can motorize it using the Impulse Pedal Drive Adapter. This adapter replaces the pedal drive and drops directly into the same opening, giving you a centered and balanced motor position with a clean, integrated fit.

If your Shearwater has the X-Drive, the Mirage Pedal Drive Adapter offers a simple drop-in solution. To install it, remove your fin-style pedal drive and place the adapter into the same opening.

In both setups, the Bixpy K-1 Motor mounts to the bottom of the adapter, creating a centered and balanced drive position. This helps the kayak track straight and move efficiently through the water.

The updated version of this adapter is lighter and more compact, and it includes a reinforced front bumper to help protect the motor in shallow water. Its low-draft design reduces drag, and the entire system installs quickly without permanent modifications.

Universal Versa Rudder

The Universal Versa Rudder replaces your kayak’s stock rudder and combines steering and motor mounting into a single unit. Installation starts by removing the original rudder, then inserting the Versa Rudder into the existing 10 mm rudder hole. Once installed, you reconnect your steering lines as usual.

The Bixpy K-1 Motor mounts to the underside of the rudder, allowing you to steer using the same foot pedals or handlebars you already use. This setup keeps the deck clear, places the motor safely behind the kayak, and provides smooth, predictable handling.

For paddlers who want a rear-mounted motor that feels natural and integrated, the Versa Rudder is a solid option.

DIY Pod Adapter

If your Shearwater uses a removable pod, the DIY Pod Adapter is one of the cleanest and most integrated motor setups available. The adapter plate bolts directly to the bottom of the dry pod using the included hardware. The Bixpy K-1 Motor then mounts to the adapter.

Once installed, the pod drops back into its normal position and the motor sits centered under the kayak. This keeps the kayak balanced and helps it track straight. The setup is lightweight and low profile, and it includes a protective shield to help guard the motor from shallow-water contact.

All components are waterproof and corrosion-resistant, making this a practical option for anglers who want a clean install that’s easy to remove for transport or storage.

RailBlaza Adapter

The RailBlaza Adapter is more like a last resource option. It can be installed on any flat 3-inch surface or mounted directly to RailBlaza-compatible tracks. To set it up, you secure the base plate, attach the Bixpy K-1 Motor, and lock it in place.

This mount positions the motor off the side of the kayak and works well for customized or non-standard setups. While most Shearwater owners choose one of the more integrated options above, the RailBlaza Adapter remains useful for kayaks already rigged with RailBlaza accessories or for anglers who want maximum mounting flexibility.

Ready to Power Up Your Shearwater 125?

With more than 20 adapters available, Bixpy makes it possible to motorize almost any kayak—but the Vibe Shearwater 125 is especially well suited for it. Each of the setups above offers quiet, efficient electric power that can help you travel farther, manage current with less effort, and spend more time fishing.

Watch the full installation of these adapters on a Vibe Shearwater 125.